Cabo San Juan del Guía
Location
Zaino/Cañaveral Sector, Tayrona National Park
Distance
40 km
Difficulty
Challenging trek
Highlights
Hammock camping
Cabo San Juan del Guía is Tayrona's most iconic beach — a rocky headland with a hammock camp perched on a peninsula above two contrasting coves. One side is calm and swimmable; the other is wild, wave-battered, and spectacular. Reaching it requires either a 2-hour jungle hike from the El Zaino entrance or a 45-minute boat from Taganga (~90,000 COP return). Sleeping here overnight — in a hammock on the peninsula (50,000 COP) or a tent (20,000–40,000 COP) — with howler monkeys in the canopy and the Milky Way above is a genuine bucket-list experience. A small restaurant and mini-mart operate on site.
To decide this beach properly today, combine live map + water temperature + Santa Marta facts.
Highlights
Interactive marine forecast
Dynamic coordinates: 11.3287, -73.9643
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Beach map
Nearby beaches
Plan your visit
Best time to visit
Overnight stays are best December–April; arrive before 10:30 AM to claim a shady spot
Entrance fee
Not specified
Closure dates
Not specified
Getting there
Bus to El Zaino entrance from Santa Marta (~9,000 COP), then 2-hour jungle hike to the beach. Or boat from Taganga (~90,000 COP return, 45 min).
Insider tip
Hammocks on the open-air peninsula hut have better views and breeze than those on land, but can be cold and windy at night — bring a light layer. Book your hammock spot in person at the El Zaino entrance desk on arrival (cannot be reserved online).
Warnings
- One cove has dangerous surf and riptides — only swim in the designated calm cove
- Hammocks and tents cannot be booked online and sell out fast during peak season
- No ATMs in the park — bring sufficient cash
Keep planning your route
Suggested hotels near this area
Ready to visit?
Book a guided tour with transport included.